Ero furcata
This record describes Ero furcata (species). Recorded family: Mimetidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Males 2.5 to 3 mm, females 3.5 to 4.5 mm. Prosoma yellowish-brown, eye region and a broad stripe on margin darker, almost black. A black line between dorsal groove and eye region. Sternum yellowish-white, with dark spots. Legs yellowish, annulated with red-brown to black. Opisthosoma with one pair of tubercles dark, reddish and grey on yellow background. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Photographs must show the two abdominal tubercles and characteristic pattern on the sternum. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. Fairly frequent and probably under recorded in our area. http://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Ero+furcata
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Ero furcata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
As of 2023, 51,673 spider species in 136 families have been recorded, though an estimated 150,000 species exist. Spiders rank 7th in total species diversity among all organism orders. Only 0.5% of spider species pose any risk to human health.
Ecological role of the group
Spider venom contains complex peptides with diverse pharmacological activities, making them valuable for drug development research. Spiders produce up to 7 types of silk from specialized glands. Spider silk genes have been inserted into mammals and plants for biotech applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The global spider community kills an estimated 400-800 million tons of prey annually (2017 study). Spiders provide billions of dollars in natural pest control for agriculture. Spider silk is 5× stronger than steel of the same diameter, driving a biomaterials research industry.
Recorded sources for this group: World Spider Catalog, PNAS, Nature, ScienceDirect. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Ero furcata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ero furcata
What is Ero furcata?
Ero furcata is a species in the family Mimetidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Ero furcata found?
Habitat: On vegetation.
When is Ero furcata active?
Ero furcata: seasonal activity - Spring to Autumn..